US20150129356A1 - Roof safety device - Google Patents
Roof safety device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150129356A1 US20150129356A1 US14/535,871 US201414535871A US2015129356A1 US 20150129356 A1 US20150129356 A1 US 20150129356A1 US 201414535871 A US201414535871 A US 201414535871A US 2015129356 A1 US2015129356 A1 US 2015129356A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- roof
- safety device
- roof safety
- fixed arm
- hook
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 239000011295 pitch Substances 0.000 claims description 11
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- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000001174 ascending effect Effects 0.000 description 2
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- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 description 2
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- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000452 restraining effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B35/00—Safety belts or body harnesses; Similar equipment for limiting displacement of the human body, especially in case of sudden changes of motion
- A62B35/0043—Lifelines, lanyards, and anchors therefore
- A62B35/0068—Anchors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62B—DEVICES, APPARATUS OR METHODS FOR LIFE-SAVING
- A62B35/00—Safety belts or body harnesses; Similar equipment for limiting displacement of the human body, especially in case of sudden changes of motion
- A62B35/0006—Harnesses; Accessories therefor
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04D—ROOF COVERINGS; SKY-LIGHTS; GUTTERS; ROOF-WORKING TOOLS
- E04D13/00—Special arrangements or devices in connection with roof coverings; Protection against birds; Roof drainage ; Sky-lights
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G21/00—Preparing, conveying, or working-up building materials or building elements in situ; Other devices or measures for constructional work
- E04G21/32—Safety or protective measures for persons during the construction of buildings
- E04G21/3261—Safety-nets; Safety mattresses; Arrangements on buildings for connecting safety-lines
- E04G21/3276—Arrangements on buildings for connecting safety-lines
- E04G21/328—Arrangements on buildings for connecting safety-lines fastened to the roof covering or insulation
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
- E04G3/24—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons
- E04G3/26—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons specially adapted for working on roofs
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
- E06C7/48—Ladder heads; Supports for heads of ladders for resting against objects
- E06C7/488—Supports specially adapted to attach a ladder to a ridge of a roof
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
- E04G3/24—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons
- E04G3/26—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons specially adapted for working on roofs
- E04G3/265—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons specially adapted for working on roofs with means to adapt it to a variable pitch of the roof
Definitions
- the invention relates to a safety device associated with the roofing industry. More particularly, the invention relates to a safety device that minimizes the potential for injury related to falling off of a roof surface. More specifically, the invention relates to a roof safety device that anchors to the surface of a medium-to-high pitch roof of a structure about the apex and/or roof vent of the roof to minimize potential injury to workers by preventing falls while mounting or dismounting a ladder.
- the roof of a structure is integral in protecting both the structure and also the occupants beneath and/or within the structure from environmental elements.
- the owner and/or workers In order to maintain the roof of a structure, the owner and/or workers must frequently climb atop the roof utilizing a ladder, or other climbing means, such as scaffolding. Such work may include, but is not limited to, inspections, cleaning of gutters, clearing drain pipes, and/or hanging festive lights. In order to accomplish these tasks, the workers may be required to climb atop the roof and, further, move around on the surface of the roof to accomplish the various tasks.
- Prior art roof safety devices were developed to minimize the potential harm to workers while conducting work activities on the roof of a structure.
- Prior art roof safety devices typically are fixedly mounted on the apex of the roof structure, or alternatively, on the opposite side of the roof structure from the ladder, or other climbing means.
- Such prior art roof safety devices typically provide enough leverage to support a worker on the inclined surface of the roof.
- Prior art roof safety devices are generally complex in design and require the worker to step onto the roof from the ladder, or other climbing means, to install the prior art roof safety device prior to utilizing the device in place. In this manner, the worker is required to step onto the roof surface without a prior art safety device. Additionally, the prior art roof safety device typically directly abuts at least one side of the roof apex and/or ridge vent potentially causing damage to the abutted side of the roof apex, the ridge vent, or both.
- the roof safety device of the present invention overcomes these problems.
- Objectives of the present invention include providing a roof safety device with a relatively simple design which is durable and that allows the worker to install and remove the roof safety device from the safety of a ladder, or other secured climbing means.
- a further objective of the present invention is to provide a roof safety device that is easily adaptable to roof structures having different roof pitches without contacting the roof apex and/or ridge vent minimizing potential damage to the roof apex and/or ridge vent of the roof structure.
- a roof safety device comprising a fixed arm having a generally arched portion and a first cross-beam; a hook-slide slidably cooperating with said arched portion of said fixed arm, said hook-slide including a second cross-beam a means for removably locking said hook-slide into fixed engagement with said fixed arm; a harness connected to said fixed arm.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art roof safety device positioned on a roof of a structure
- FIG. 2 is a perspective side view of a preferred embodiment roof safety device of the present invention, with the extension pole removed from the safety device;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device shown in FIG. 2 , showing the adjustable hook slide capable of adjusting to different roof pitches and showing the wheels and the harness clip of the roof safety device;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective rear view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device shown in FIG. 2 , showing the secondary harness eyelet of the roof safety device;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device following installation on a roof, with the extension pole attached to the roof safety device.
- FIG. 1 A prior art roof safety device 10 is shown in FIG. 1 .
- Prior art roof safety device 10 is shown fully installed on a roof 12 of a structure 27 (not shown), as will be described.
- Roof 12 includes a pair of inclined members 14 , 16 that form a roof apex 18 .
- Inclined surfaces 14 , 16 are generally covered with shingles 29 , which are arranged and attached to the inclined members in a manner well know to those having skill in the art. It should be understood that alternative means for covering the roof structure exist such as metal sheeting and rubber sheeting as are generally well known in the art.
- a ridge vent 28 extends longitudinally along apex 18 of roof 12 . Ridge vent 28 is mounted on inclined member 14 , 16 at apex 18 in a manner well known in the art.
- Ridge vent 28 includes openings (not shown) formed along the longitudinal sides of the ridge vent that provide air flow from the attic space below roof inclined members 14 , 16 to atmosphere. Ridge vent 28 is typically formed from plastic or aluminum or other similarly suitable material.
- Prior art roof safety device 10 generally includes an anchor portion 20 , a stabilizer portion 22 , a cord 24 , and a harness 26 . Anchor portion 20 and stabilizer portion 22 are arranged generally perpendicular to one another to provide leverage when in use to support a worker attached to harness 26 .
- anchor portion 20 flat upon roof inclined member 16 may damage shingles 29 on the roof member, and/or ridge vent 28 . More specifically, because anchor portion 20 of prior art roof safety device 10 rests flat on ridge vent 28 and shingles 29 attached to roof inclined member 16 , the safety device can potentially cause damage to the ridge vents and/or the shingles or other roof covering. Additionally, a worker must step off of a ladder, or other climbing means (not shown), and climb the pitched or slanted roof member 14 to install prior art roof safety device 10 upon roof 12 . In this manner, the worker must climb from the ladder to roof 12 and maneuver across the roof without being attached to roof safety device 10 or any other restraining means, increasing the potential for injury and/or slipping from the roof 12 of the building.
- Preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 of the present invention generally includes a fixed arm 102 , a hook slide 104 , and a pair of crossbeams 106 , 108 .
- Fixed arm 102 includes an arched or curved portion 110 , a straight portion 112 , and a harness support portion 128 .
- Hook slide 104 has a generally arched or curved shaped and is formed with an opening 114 to accept curved portion 110 of fixed arm 102 . Additionally, hook slide 104 is formed with an opening 116 at about its midpoint to accept a hitch pin 118 .
- Hitch pin 118 is disposed through a corresponding opening (not shown) in curved portion 110 of fixed arm 102 to secure hook slide 104 to the fixed arm forming a generally U-shaped, arched structure that anchors about the apex of the roof of a structure, as will be described below.
- Hook slide 104 further includes a secondary harness eyelet 120 protruding near the distal end of the hook slide.
- the distal end of hook slide 104 is rigidly connected to cross beam 108 , preferably by welding, and the cross beam extends generally perpendicular to the hook slide.
- Cross beam 108 is a generally flat rectangular shape and is formed with a pair of openings 122 ( FIG. 4 ).
- a compressible pad 124 is attached to the bottom surface of cross beam 108 .
- Compressible pad 124 is preferably formed from a foam material to minimize impacts to the roof and also to promote additional contact friction between cross beam 108 and the upper surface of roof 12 .
- Curved portion 110 of fixed arm 102 includes markings 126 that provide indications to the user of roof safety device 100 , for adjusting the roof safety device to the slope or pitch of roof apex 18 . More particularly, each marking 126 corresponds to an opening (not shown) formed in curved portion 110 that accepts hitch pin 118 of hook slide 104 . In this manner, each marking 126 corresponds to an angle A that may be adjusted to correspond to and accommodate roof apex 18 and/or ridge vent 28 of roof 12 by sliding fixed arm 102 into and out of hook slide 104 . Additionally, straight portion 112 of fixed arm 102 is rigidly connected to cross beam 106 , preferably by welding.
- Cross beam 106 like cross beam 108 , is a generally flat rectangular plate that is formed with a pair of openings 134 .
- a compressible pad 130 is attached to the bottom surface of cross beam 106 .
- Compressible pad 130 is preferably formed from a foam material to minimize impacts to the roof and also to promote additional friction between cross beam 108 and the upper surface of the roof
- Harness support portion 128 of fixed arm 102 is generally triangular in shape and includes an opening 132 formed between straight portion 112 and the harness support portion.
- a removable harness clip 142 is connected to harness support portion 128 to provide a location for the worker to attach a safety line 150 thereto.
- Harness support portion 128 further includes a wheel opening (not shown) that accepts a fastener 136 , preferably a bolt, with a corresponding washer 138 and a nut (not shown) to removably attach a pair of wheels 140 to the harness support portion.
- Wheels 140 are preferably formed of rubber or other similar material.
- a coupler end 144 of straight portion 112 is formed with a threaded coupler opening 146 .
- a pole 152 is connected to preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 by screwing a threaded end of the pole (not shown) into threaded coupler opening 146 of coupler end 144 to attach the pole to roof safety device 100 .
- preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 of the present invention may be assembled by the worker prior to climbing a ladder 156 , or other secured climbing means, minimizing the potential for injury, as will be described below.
- pole 152 to coupler end 144 of straight portion 112 of roof safety device 100 could also be utilized, such as a pole that is slip fit onto the coupler end and held in place with a connecting pin, or other known means of securement, without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- roof safety device 100 Prior to ascending ladder 156 , or other climbing means, the worker, or user of roof safety device 100 , adjusts angle A to account for the roof pitch of the structure he/she is about to perform work on, by sliding fixed arm 102 into and out of hook slide 104 . More specifically, the worker uses markings 126 to adjust roof safety device 100 to correspond to the pitch of roof apex 18 to ensure optimal placement of the roof safety device and to minimize potential damage to the roof apex and/or ridge vent 28 of roof 12 .
- hitch pin 118 is inserted through opening 116 and the corresponding opening (not shown) in curved portion 110 of fixed arm 102 .
- angle A generally corresponds to the slope or pitch of roof apex 18 ensuring optimal placement of the roof safety device 100 and minimizing potential damage of roof 12 and/or the ridge vent of the roof by the roof safety device.
- roof safety device 100 After proper adjustment of angle A of roof safety device 100 , worker attaches their harness 154 to either harness clip 142 or harness eyelet 120 . User then connects pole 152 , as described above, to preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 of the present invention prior to the user stepping onto ladder 156 , or other climbing means. Once roof safety device 100 is configured to the proper adjustment angle and assembled, the user then delivers the roof safety device to roof 12 by ascending ladder 156 .
- Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is oriented by the worker in such a way on roof 12 so that the wheels 140 are in contact with roof 12 and pads 124 , 130 are facing generally away from the roof Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is wheeled or maneuvered across roof 12 by the worker utilizing pole 152 so that curved portion 110 and hook slide 104 are positioned over roof apex 18 and/or ridge vent.
- roof safety device 100 is rotated about 180 degrees utilizing pole 152 such that pads 124 , 130 of crossbeams 106 , 108 , respectively, contact roof 12 . In this manner, curved portion 110 and hook slide 104 straddle roof apex 18 and/or ridge vent 28 of roof 12 .
- Pads 124 , 130 of crossbeams 106 , 108 minimize potential damage to roof 12 , while providing traction or contact friction to roof safety device 100 , thereby resulting in optimal, secure installation of the roof safety device on the roof. Additionally, if roof 12 is unfinished, fasteners (not shown) may be disposed through openings 122 , 134 of cross beams 106 , 108 , respectively, and fixed to the roof to further secure preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 to the roof.
- roof safety device 100 Once preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 is positioned over roof apex 18 and/or the ridge vent, the user may safely disembark from ladder 156 . In this manner, worker is able to safely exit ladder 156 onto roof 12 , while minimizing the potential risk of slipping and/or falling from the roof, as a result of being safely harnessed to preferred embodiment roof safety device 100 .
- roof safety device 100 of the present invention maintains the safety of the worker. For example, if the worker slips on roof 12 and slides towards the edge of the roof, safety harness 154 connected to roof safety device 100 of the present invention, will minimize the potential consequences of the fall. More specifically, harness 154 is connected to harness clip 142 or harness eyelet 120 of roof safety device 100 of the present invention. In this manner, once line 150 of the safety harness 154 tightens, the line pulls the harness clip 142 or harness eyelet 120 .
- Roof safety device 100 of the present invention remains fixed atop roof apex 18 of the roof as a result of the leverage created by crossbeam 106 , 108 as well as the additional friction created from the contact of pads 124 , 130 with roof 12 , thereby minimizing movement of the roof safety device and stabilizing the worker who slipped and fell. In this manner, the potential consequences of the user falling from roof 12 are minimized.
- roof safety device 100 Upon completion of the task on roof 12 , the worker maneuvers towards ladder 156 , or other climbing means, and exits the roof onto the ladder. In this manner, the user is safely harnessed to roof safety device 100 upon exiting roof 12 , thereby preventing a potential slip and/or potential fall from roof 12 . Roof safety device 100 is then oriented onto wheels 140 such that the wheels are in contact with the surface of roof 12 and pads 124 , 130 are facing generally away from the roof. The roof safety device is wheeled or maneuvered by the worker utilizing pole 152 towards ladder 156 from roof apex 18 and/or the ridge vent of the roof Once back to the ladder, roof safety device 100 can be removed from roof 12 and lowered to the ground by the worker.
- Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is lighter than typical prior art roof safety device 10 and may be installed about roof apex 18 and/or ridge vent 28 of roof 12 minimizing potential damage to the ridge vent or roof covering of the roof. Additionally, roof safety device 100 of the present invention is installed, and uninstalled, while the worker remains on ladder 156 minimizing the potential for slipping and/or falling from the ladder or structure.
- curved portion 110 of fixed arm 102 and hook slide 104 may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- additional harness clip 142 and/or harness eyelet 120 may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- harness support portion 128 may include other shapes, other than triangular, without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- additional cross beams 106 , 108 may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- other securing means other than hitch pin 118 , may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- a single wheel 140 or a plurality of wheels may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is even further contemplated that a single opening 134 , 122 or a plurality of openings 134 , 122 may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is contemplated that other materials may be used for friction pads 124 , 130 without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is also contemplated that pole 152 may be a fixed length or telescoping without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention.
- the roof safety device of the present invention is simplified, provides an effective, safe, inexpensive and efficient structure and method which achieves all the enumerated objectives, provides for eliminating difficulties encountered with prior roof safety devices, and solves problems and obtains new results in the art.
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Abstract
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/902,965, filed Nov. 12, 2013.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates to a safety device associated with the roofing industry. More particularly, the invention relates to a safety device that minimizes the potential for injury related to falling off of a roof surface. More specifically, the invention relates to a roof safety device that anchors to the surface of a medium-to-high pitch roof of a structure about the apex and/or roof vent of the roof to minimize potential injury to workers by preventing falls while mounting or dismounting a ladder.
- 2. Background Art
- The roof of a structure is integral in protecting both the structure and also the occupants beneath and/or within the structure from environmental elements. In order to maintain the roof of a structure, the owner and/or workers must frequently climb atop the roof utilizing a ladder, or other climbing means, such as scaffolding. Such work may include, but is not limited to, inspections, cleaning of gutters, clearing drain pipes, and/or hanging festive lights. In order to accomplish these tasks, the workers may be required to climb atop the roof and, further, move around on the surface of the roof to accomplish the various tasks.
- Maneuvering from the ladder to the roof or from the roof to the ladder can be one of the most dangerous aspects related to working on the roof. When performing these maneuvers, a worker may potentially lose their balance, the ladder may shift, etc., causing the worker to slip and/or fall from the ladder or the roof structure. A worker falling from the roof and/or ladder may potentially be subjected to serious bodily injury and even death.
- In this manner, prior art roof safety devices were developed to minimize the potential harm to workers while conducting work activities on the roof of a structure. Prior art roof safety devices typically are fixedly mounted on the apex of the roof structure, or alternatively, on the opposite side of the roof structure from the ladder, or other climbing means. Such prior art roof safety devices typically provide enough leverage to support a worker on the inclined surface of the roof.
- Prior art roof safety devices are generally complex in design and require the worker to step onto the roof from the ladder, or other climbing means, to install the prior art roof safety device prior to utilizing the device in place. In this manner, the worker is required to step onto the roof surface without a prior art safety device. Additionally, the prior art roof safety device typically directly abuts at least one side of the roof apex and/or ridge vent potentially causing damage to the abutted side of the roof apex, the ridge vent, or both.
- Therefore, a need exists in the art for an improved roof safety device that is simple in design and capable of being installed prior to a worker stepping onto the roof from the ladder or other climbing means, ensuring the worker's safety while moving from the ladder to the roof surface. Further, a need exists for a roof safety device that is easily adapted to roofs having different roof pitches while minimizing potential damage to the roof surface, the roof apex and/or ridge vent.
- The roof safety device of the present invention overcomes these problems.
- Objectives of the present invention include providing a roof safety device with a relatively simple design which is durable and that allows the worker to install and remove the roof safety device from the safety of a ladder, or other secured climbing means.
- A further objective of the present invention is to provide a roof safety device that is easily adaptable to roof structures having different roof pitches without contacting the roof apex and/or ridge vent minimizing potential damage to the roof apex and/or ridge vent of the roof structure.
- These objectives and advantages are obtained by a roof safety device comprising a fixed arm having a generally arched portion and a first cross-beam; a hook-slide slidably cooperating with said arched portion of said fixed arm, said hook-slide including a second cross-beam a means for removably locking said hook-slide into fixed engagement with said fixed arm; a harness connected to said fixed arm.
- The preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrative of the best mode in which Applicant has contemplated applying the principles, is set forth in the following description, is shown in the drawings, and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art roof safety device positioned on a roof of a structure; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective side view of a preferred embodiment roof safety device of the present invention, with the extension pole removed from the safety device; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device shown inFIG. 2 , showing the adjustable hook slide capable of adjusting to different roof pitches and showing the wheels and the harness clip of the roof safety device; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective rear view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device shown inFIG. 2 , showing the secondary harness eyelet of the roof safety device; and -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment roof safety device following installation on a roof, with the extension pole attached to the roof safety device. - Similar numerals refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.
- In order to better understand the structure, assembly and operation of the preferred embodiment roof safety device of the present invention and its various configurations, the structure, assembly and operation of a typical prior art roof safety device will be described in detail below.
- A prior art
roof safety device 10 is shown inFIG. 1 . Prior artroof safety device 10 is shown fully installed on aroof 12 of a structure 27 (not shown), as will be described.Roof 12 includes a pair ofinclined members roof apex 18. Inclinedsurfaces shingles 29, which are arranged and attached to the inclined members in a manner well know to those having skill in the art. It should be understood that alternative means for covering the roof structure exist such as metal sheeting and rubber sheeting as are generally well known in the art. Aridge vent 28 extends longitudinally alongapex 18 ofroof 12. Ridgevent 28 is mounted oninclined member apex 18 in a manner well known in the art.Ridge vent 28 includes openings (not shown) formed along the longitudinal sides of the ridge vent that provide air flow from the attic space below roof inclinedmembers Ridge vent 28 is typically formed from plastic or aluminum or other similarly suitable material. Prior artroof safety device 10 generally includes ananchor portion 20, astabilizer portion 22, acord 24, and aharness 26.Anchor portion 20 andstabilizer portion 22 are arranged generally perpendicular to one another to provide leverage when in use to support a worker attached toharness 26. - The positioning of
anchor portion 20 flat upon roof inclinedmember 16 may damageshingles 29 on the roof member, and/orridge vent 28, More specifically, becauseanchor portion 20 of prior artroof safety device 10 rests flat onridge vent 28 andshingles 29 attached to roof inclinedmember 16, the safety device can potentially cause damage to the ridge vents and/or the shingles or other roof covering. Additionally, a worker must step off of a ladder, or other climbing means (not shown), and climb the pitched orslanted roof member 14 to install prior artroof safety device 10 uponroof 12. In this manner, the worker must climb from the ladder toroof 12 and maneuver across the roof without being attached toroof safety device 10 or any other restraining means, increasing the potential for injury and/or slipping from theroof 12 of the building. - Likewise, a worker removing prior
art safety device 10 will be required to move fromroof apex 18 where the roof safety device is anchored back to the ladder, and from the roof onto the ladder, without any form of restraint (safety) to prohibit the worker from falling from the roof of the structure. - Therefore, a need exists in the art for an improved roof safety device that is simple in design, durable, and minimizes and/or eliminates potential damage to the ridge vent and/or roof. Additionally, a need exists for an improved roof safety device that is capable of being installed and uninstalled while the worker remains on the secured ladder minimizing the potential for slipping and/or falling from the roof, ladder, or other climbing means. The roof safety device of the present invention accomplishes these needs. The structure and installation of the roof safety device of the present invention will now be described in detail below.
- Turning now to
FIGS. 2-5 , a preferred embodiment roof safety device of the present invention is indicated generally atreference number 100. Preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 of the present invention generally includes afixed arm 102, ahook slide 104, and a pair ofcrossbeams arm 102 includes an arched orcurved portion 110, astraight portion 112, and aharness support portion 128.Hook slide 104 has a generally arched or curved shaped and is formed with anopening 114 to acceptcurved portion 110 offixed arm 102. Additionally,hook slide 104 is formed with anopening 116 at about its midpoint to accept ahitch pin 118.Hitch pin 118 is disposed through a corresponding opening (not shown) incurved portion 110 of fixedarm 102 to securehook slide 104 to the fixed arm forming a generally U-shaped, arched structure that anchors about the apex of the roof of a structure, as will be described below. -
Hook slide 104 further includes asecondary harness eyelet 120 protruding near the distal end of the hook slide. The distal end ofhook slide 104 is rigidly connected to crossbeam 108, preferably by welding, and the cross beam extends generally perpendicular to the hook slide.Cross beam 108 is a generally flat rectangular shape and is formed with a pair of openings 122 (FIG. 4 ). Acompressible pad 124 is attached to the bottom surface ofcross beam 108.Compressible pad 124 is preferably formed from a foam material to minimize impacts to the roof and also to promote additional contact friction betweencross beam 108 and the upper surface ofroof 12. -
Curved portion 110 of fixedarm 102 includesmarkings 126 that provide indications to the user ofroof safety device 100, for adjusting the roof safety device to the slope or pitch ofroof apex 18. More particularly, each marking 126 corresponds to an opening (not shown) formed incurved portion 110 that acceptshitch pin 118 ofhook slide 104. In this manner, each marking 126 corresponds to an angle A that may be adjusted to correspond to and accommodateroof apex 18 and/orridge vent 28 ofroof 12 by sliding fixedarm 102 into and out ofhook slide 104. Additionally,straight portion 112 of fixedarm 102 is rigidly connected to crossbeam 106, preferably by welding.Cross beam 106, likecross beam 108, is a generally flat rectangular plate that is formed with a pair ofopenings 134. Acompressible pad 130 is attached to the bottom surface ofcross beam 106.Compressible pad 130 is preferably formed from a foam material to minimize impacts to the roof and also to promote additional friction betweencross beam 108 and the upper surface of the roof -
Harness support portion 128 of fixedarm 102 is generally triangular in shape and includes anopening 132 formed betweenstraight portion 112 and the harness support portion. Aremovable harness clip 142 is connected to harnesssupport portion 128 to provide a location for the worker to attach asafety line 150 thereto.Harness support portion 128 further includes a wheel opening (not shown) that accepts afastener 136, preferably a bolt, with acorresponding washer 138 and a nut (not shown) to removably attach a pair ofwheels 140 to the harness support portion.Wheels 140 are preferably formed of rubber or other similar material. - Opposite from
cross beam 108, acoupler end 144 ofstraight portion 112 is formed with a threadedcoupler opening 146. Apole 152 is connected to preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 by screwing a threaded end of the pole (not shown) into threadedcoupler opening 146 ofcoupler end 144 to attach the pole toroof safety device 100. In this manner, preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 of the present invention may be assembled by the worker prior to climbing aladder 156, or other secured climbing means, minimizing the potential for injury, as will be described below. Other connections ofpole 152 to coupler end 144 ofstraight portion 112 ofroof safety device 100 could also be utilized, such as a pole that is slip fit onto the coupler end and held in place with a connecting pin, or other known means of securement, without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. - Turning now to
FIG. 5 , now that the structure of preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 of the present invention has been described, the installation and operation of the roof safety device will be described in detail below. Prior to ascendingladder 156, or other climbing means, the worker, or user ofroof safety device 100, adjusts angle A to account for the roof pitch of the structure he/she is about to perform work on, by sliding fixedarm 102 into and out ofhook slide 104. More specifically, the worker usesmarkings 126 to adjustroof safety device 100 to correspond to the pitch ofroof apex 18 to ensure optimal placement of the roof safety device and to minimize potential damage to the roof apex and/orridge vent 28 ofroof 12. Upon determining the marking 126 that corresponds to the pitch ofroof apex 18,hitch pin 118 is inserted throughopening 116 and the corresponding opening (not shown) incurved portion 110 of fixedarm 102. In this manner, angle A generally corresponds to the slope or pitch ofroof apex 18 ensuring optimal placement of theroof safety device 100 and minimizing potential damage ofroof 12 and/or the ridge vent of the roof by the roof safety device. - After proper adjustment of angle A of
roof safety device 100, worker attaches theirharness 154 to eitherharness clip 142 orharness eyelet 120. User then connectspole 152, as described above, to preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 of the present invention prior to the user stepping ontoladder 156, or other climbing means. Onceroof safety device 100 is configured to the proper adjustment angle and assembled, the user then delivers the roof safety device toroof 12 by ascendingladder 156.Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is oriented by the worker in such a way onroof 12 so that thewheels 140 are in contact withroof 12 andpads Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is wheeled or maneuvered acrossroof 12 by theworker utilizing pole 152 so thatcurved portion 110 andhook slide 104 are positioned overroof apex 18 and/or ridge vent. Once positioned, preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 is rotated about 180degrees utilizing pole 152 such thatpads crossbeams contact roof 12. In this manner,curved portion 110 andhook slide 104straddle roof apex 18 and/orridge vent 28 ofroof 12.Pads crossbeams roof 12, while providing traction or contact friction toroof safety device 100, thereby resulting in optimal, secure installation of the roof safety device on the roof. Additionally, ifroof 12 is unfinished, fasteners (not shown) may be disposed throughopenings roof safety device 100 to the roof. - Once preferred embodiment
roof safety device 100 is positioned overroof apex 18 and/or the ridge vent, the user may safely disembark fromladder 156. In this manner, worker is able to safely exitladder 156 ontoroof 12, while minimizing the potential risk of slipping and/or falling from the roof, as a result of being safely harnessed to preferred embodimentroof safety device 100. - Once the worker is on
roof 12, preferred embodimentroof safety device 100 of the present invention maintains the safety of the worker. For example, if the worker slips onroof 12 and slides towards the edge of the roof,safety harness 154 connected toroof safety device 100 of the present invention, will minimize the potential consequences of the fall. More specifically,harness 154 is connected to harnessclip 142 orharness eyelet 120 ofroof safety device 100 of the present invention. In this manner, onceline 150 of thesafety harness 154 tightens, the line pulls theharness clip 142 orharness eyelet 120.Roof safety device 100 of the present invention remains fixed atoproof apex 18 of the roof as a result of the leverage created bycrossbeam pads roof 12, thereby minimizing movement of the roof safety device and stabilizing the worker who slipped and fell. In this manner, the potential consequences of the user falling fromroof 12 are minimized. - Upon completion of the task on
roof 12, the worker maneuvers towardsladder 156, or other climbing means, and exits the roof onto the ladder. In this manner, the user is safely harnessed toroof safety device 100 upon exitingroof 12, thereby preventing a potential slip and/or potential fall fromroof 12.Roof safety device 100 is then oriented ontowheels 140 such that the wheels are in contact with the surface ofroof 12 andpads worker utilizing pole 152 towardsladder 156 fromroof apex 18 and/or the ridge vent of the roof Once back to the ladder,roof safety device 100 can be removed fromroof 12 and lowered to the ground by the worker. -
Roof safety device 100 of the present invention is lighter than typical prior artroof safety device 10 and may be installed aboutroof apex 18 and/orridge vent 28 ofroof 12 minimizing potential damage to the ridge vent or roof covering of the roof. Additionally,roof safety device 100 of the present invention is installed, and uninstalled, while the worker remains onladder 156 minimizing the potential for slipping and/or falling from the ladder or structure. - It is contemplated that shapes of
curved portion 110 of fixedarm 102 andhook slide 104, other than generally U-shaped, may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is also contemplated thatadditional harness clip 142 and/orharness eyelet 120 may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is even further contemplated thatharness support portion 128 may include other shapes, other than triangular, without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is contemplated thatadditional cross beams hitch pin 118, may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is also contemplated that asingle wheel 140 or a plurality of wheels may be utilized without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. It is even further contemplated that asingle opening openings friction pads pole 152 may be a fixed length or telescoping without changing the overall concept or operation of the present invention. - Accordingly, the roof safety device of the present invention is simplified, provides an effective, safe, inexpensive and efficient structure and method which achieves all the enumerated objectives, provides for eliminating difficulties encountered with prior roof safety devices, and solves problems and obtains new results in the art.
- In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness and understanding; but no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirements of the prior art, because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.
- Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention is by way of example, and the scope of the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described.
- Having now described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which the roof safety device of the present invention is used and installed, the characteristics of the construction, arrangement and method steps, and the advantageous, new and useful results obtained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, process, parts and combinations are set forth in the appended claims.
Claims (15)
Priority Applications (1)
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US14/535,871 US9308403B2 (en) | 2013-11-12 | 2014-11-07 | Roof safety device |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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US201361902965P | 2013-11-12 | 2013-11-12 | |
US14/535,871 US9308403B2 (en) | 2013-11-12 | 2014-11-07 | Roof safety device |
Publications (2)
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US20150129356A1 true US20150129356A1 (en) | 2015-05-14 |
US9308403B2 US9308403B2 (en) | 2016-04-12 |
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US14/535,871 Active US9308403B2 (en) | 2013-11-12 | 2014-11-07 | Roof safety device |
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Cited By (5)
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US20150068839A1 (en) * | 2013-09-12 | 2015-03-12 | Daniel Webster | Roof Climbing Tool |
US20160208555A1 (en) * | 2015-01-20 | 2016-07-21 | Clifford B. Dehoff | Ladder mounting and retaining system |
US10118057B2 (en) * | 2016-04-29 | 2018-11-06 | Auburn University | Fall restraint system |
US10202805B2 (en) | 2016-06-08 | 2019-02-12 | Leonardo Surdo | Roof mounted ladder safety bracket |
US11306490B1 (en) * | 2020-03-31 | 2022-04-19 | Johnny Blow | Roofing safety system |
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US10071268B2 (en) * | 2016-03-08 | 2018-09-11 | Vince Gaines | Roof-mounted fall-arrest safety device |
US10569110B2 (en) | 2016-03-08 | 2020-02-25 | Vince Gaines | Outrigger-equipped roof-mounted fall-arrest safety device |
US20190262635A1 (en) * | 2018-02-27 | 2019-08-29 | Flent D. Ballantyne | Roof-anchoring devices and methods |
US11459779B2 (en) | 2018-02-27 | 2022-10-04 | Ballantyne Gear Inc. | Roof-anchoring systems and methods |
US11306491B2 (en) | 2019-05-22 | 2022-04-19 | Ballantyne Gear Inc. | Grabber tool and system |
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US11306490B1 (en) * | 2020-03-31 | 2022-04-19 | Johnny Blow | Roofing safety system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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CA2870790C (en) | 2021-06-15 |
CA2870790A1 (en) | 2015-05-12 |
US9308403B2 (en) | 2016-04-12 |
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